A Stroll Around the Block...With Your Cat!

It's not a surprise that a lot of the ARF Behavior Department's time is spent working with the shelter dogs. But what may be news to some people is that we also spend a good chunk of time enriching cats and modifying cat behavior.

This is especially important for cats who have a longer-than-average stay at ARF until they get adopted. The longer residence means that some cats can get stuck in a routine and are more likely to get bored and frustrated. At ARF we have several systems in place to try to add variety to all our cat's days. We have a great volunteer program that trains both adult and teen volunteers to socialize with cats. We have an enrichment program that is constantly brainstorming and implementing new fun activities for the cats. The Behavior Department is on the look out for those special cats who may need a specific plan to better meet their mental and physical needs.

And what lots of people don't understand or choose to overlook, is that their own cats can often benefit from some of the same services that we provide to ARF cats. Could your cat use some extra enrichment? You could make meal time a little more invigorating by feeding your cat out of an egg carton or a toilet paper roll. Do you have an indoor cat that is constantly gazing out the window and day dreaming of exploring the outdoors? You could train them to wear a specially designed cat harness, and then walk them on a leash around your backyard - much like a dog. Not all cats would find this fun. Some cats might be overwhelmed by all the new sights and smells of the outdoors, but if your cat is typically curious and tolerant in nature, a walk on a leash may be the thing to brighten up their day.

Here is a video of ARF cat, Holdsworth, enjoying a walk around the building: